Chapter 5: Problem 54
Multiply. $$ (2 x-y)(2 x+y) $$
Short Answer
Expert verified
The result is \(4x^2 - y^2\).
Step by step solution
01
Identify the Pattern
First, recognize that the expression \((2x-y)(2x+y)\) is in the form \((a-b)(a+b)\), which represents the difference of squares pattern \((a^2 - b^2)\).
02
Apply the Difference of Squares Formula
Using the formula \((a-b)(a+b) = a^2 - b^2\), substitute \(a = 2x\) and \(b = y\). This gives: \((2x)^2 - (y)^2\).
03
Calculate and Simplify
Now calculate \((2x)^2\) and \(y^2\). \((2x)^2 = 4x^2\) and \(y^2\) remains \(y^2\). Therefore, the expression becomes \(4x^2 - y^2\).
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Difference of Squares Pattern
In algebra, the difference of squares is a special algebraic pattern used to simplify expressions quickly. This pattern is based on the formula \((a-b)(a+b) = a^2 - b^2\). It works because the middle terms in the expanded form cancel each other out. For example, when we multiply \((2x-y)\) and \((2x+y)\), we notice it fits this pattern:
- If \(a = 2x\), then \(a^2\) is \((2x)^2 = 4x^2\).
- If \(b = y\), then \(b^2\) is \(y^2\).
Polynomial Multiplication
Multiplying polynomials is a key skill in algebra, often using the distributive property. Essentially, each term in one polynomial multiplies by each term in the other. For instance, with polynomials \((2x-y)\) and \((2x+y)\), you distribute as follows:
- \(2x \times 2x = 4x^2\)
- \(2x \times y = 2xy\)
- \(-y \times 2x = -2xy\)
- \(-y \times y = -y^2\)
Factoring Expressions
Factoring is the process of breaking down expressions into products of simpler expressions. This technique is invaluable when simplifying equations or solving polynomial expressions.To factor a difference of squares, you reverse the difference of squares formula:
- If you start with \(4x^2 - y^2\), you identify it as \(a^2 - b^2\), implying \((a-b)(a+b)\).
- You determine \(a = 2x\) and \(b = y\), thus factoring to \((2x-y)(2x+y)\).
Understanding Mathematical Expressions
Mathematical expressions are combinations of variables, numbers, and operators that represent a value. Understanding them is crucial in algebra, especially as they can be manipulated in various ways to solve problems.Expressions like \((2x-y)(2x+y)\) can be simplified or expanded depending on what you're trying to achieve:
- To simplify: Identify patterns such as difference of squares to make calculations faster.
- To expand: Use polynomial multiplication to understand the structure of the expression.